You didn’t land on the Olde english bulldog by accident. This is a breed people seek out, and for good reason. Muscular and athletic, more health-sound than the modern English Bulldog, and protective without being aggressive, they’re a natural fit for experienced owners who want a Bulldog-type dog with better health and more working capability who want a sturdy, loyal, and more physically capable take on the Bulldog type. Let’s dig in.
What are the characteristics of a Olde english bulldog?
Think you know what you’re getting into with a Olde english bulldog? These scores will either confirm your suspicions or give you something to think about. Either way, good to know now.
Training
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Trainability | 3 out of 5 | Intelligent and capable. They learn well when training is consistent and rewarding |
| Obedience | 3 out of 5 | Can be reliable with a confident, consistent handler |
| Focus | 3 out of 5 | Reasonably focused during sessions. High distraction environments pull attention |
| Stubbornness | 3 out of 5 | Some stubbornness typical of bully breeds. Patient, positive handling works best |
Friendliness
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Good with family | 4 out of 5 | Devoted to their family. They form strong bonds and are protective of the people they love |
| Good with children | 3 out of 5 | Can be good with children in the household. Their size calls for supervision with small kids |
| Good with strangers | 2 out of 5 | Reserved with strangers. Early socialization is important |
| Good with other dogs | 2 out of 5 | Can be dog-selective. Multi-dog households need careful management |
Adaptability
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment living | 2 out of 5 | Not suited to apartment living. They need space and moderate daily exercise |
| Cold weather | 3 out of 5 | Handles cool weather reasonably well |
| Hot weather | 3 out of 5 | Better heat tolerance than the modern English Bulldog, though still needs monitoring |
| Routine flexibility | 2 out of 5 | Needs consistent structure and routine |
| First time owner | 2 out of 5 | Better suited to experienced owners familiar with bully breeds |
Physical needs
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | 3 out of 5 | Moderate to good energy. More athletic than the modern English Bulldog |
| Endurance | 3 out of 5 | Decent endurance, much better than the English Bulldog |
| Exercise needs | 3 out of 5 | Needs 30 to 45 minutes of moderate daily exercise |
| Mental stimulation | 3 out of 5 | Intelligent. Benefits from mental engagement and training |
| Grooming needs | 2 out of 5 | Short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming |
Personality
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Playfulness | 3 out of 5 | Playful and engaged with family members they trust |
| Affection | 4 out of 5 | Affectionate and physically warm with their inner circle |
| Loyalty | 4 out of 5 | Loyal to their family |
| Independence | 3 out of 5 | Self-sufficient. Can handle some alone time |
| Alertness | 4 out of 5 | Alert and watchful |
Behavior
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Barking tendency | 2 out of 5 | Not nuisance barkers |
| Digging tendency | 2 out of 5 | Low digging tendency |
| Chewing tendency | 3 out of 5 | Moderate chewing tendency |
| Prey drive | 3 out of 5 | Moderate prey drive |
| Guarding instincts | 4 out of 5 | Protective instincts are present and meaningful |
What are common health issues of a Olde english bulldog?
Like all breeds, Olde english bulldogs are prone to certain health conditions. Here’s what to keep on your radar.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
Olde English Bulldogs have flat faces and narrow airways that make breathing a daily challenge. Heat, exercise, and excitement can all make symptoms noticeably worse.
Read more about Brachycephalic Airway SyndromeHip Dysplasia
The hip joint develops abnormally, causing pain and arthritis. Olde English Bulldogs are prone to it, and their heavy, muscular build puts extra pressure on affected joints.
Read more about Hip DysplasiaAllergies
Olde English Bulldogs are prone to skin allergies, often appearing as itching, redness, or infections in their skin folds. Food and environmental triggers are both worth exploring.
Read more about AllergiesCherry Eye
The gland in your dog's third eyelid pops out of place, appearing as a red mass in the corner of the eye. It is common in Olde English Bulldogs and usually requires surgical correction.
Read more about Cherry EyeElbow Dysplasia
A developmental condition affecting the elbow joint during growth. It is common in Olde English Bulldogs and often causes front-leg lameness that may need management or surgery.
Read more about Elbow DysplasiaWhat are the recommended health tests for Olde english bulldogs?
Your Olde english bulldog can’t tell you when something’s off. That’s what these tests are for. Here’s what vets typically recommend for them.
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OFA hip evaluation -
OFA elbow evaluation
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CAER ophthalmologist eye exam
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Cardiac evaluation by a board-certified cardiologist
Do Olde english bulldogs need pet insurance?
We’ll let the numbers do the talking, but spoiler: a lot of Olde english bulldog owners are really glad they had coverage.
Those numbers aren’t hypotheticals. They’re real claims from real Olde english bulldog owners in 2025.
The right pet insurance means you’re making decisions based on what your dog needs, not what you can afford.
With Lemonade, you can build a plan around your Bully specifically. Start with accident and illness coverage as your base, then add on what makes sense for your dog, things like physical therapy, dental illness, or behavioral treatment, and skip what doesn’t. Coverage applies to conditions that aren’t pre-existing (AKA, a condition that occurs after your policy is active and your waiting periods have passed), and you’ll know exactly what’s included before you commit. No fine print ambushes, no surprises at claim time.
And when you do need to file? You can do it in the app in minutes. No paperwork, no hold music, no waiting around.
Olde english bulldogs are worth protecting with proper coverage. Here’s how to do it right.
How much does pet insurance cost?
The cost of your premium is personal. It depends on your Bullys age, your location, and what you add to your plan. That said, here’s a realistic look at what other Olde english bulldog owners pay with Lemonade:
| Age | Average monthly premium |
|---|---|
| 1 year old | $65-$70 |
| 2 years old | $55-$60 |
| 3 years old | $60-$65 |
| 4 years old | $70-$75 |
| 5 years old | $80-$85 |
| 6 years old | $85-$90 |
| 7 years old | $85-$90 |
Not sure if Lemonade is the right fit for your Bully?
See how we stack up. Compare pet insurance options side by side and find the coverage that fits your Olde english bulldog and your budget.
History of the Olde english bulldog
The Olde English Bulldogge is a recreated breed developed by David Leavitt in the United States in the 1970s. Leavitt's goal was to recreate the athletic, working bulldog of early 18th-century England before the breed was selectively bred down to its current extreme form, with a focus on improved health, athleticism, and breathing over the exaggerated conformation of the modern English Bulldog. Leavitt crossed English Bulldogs with American Pit Bull Terriers, American Bulldogs, and Bullmastiffs to produce a dog that retained the Bulldog's appearance and temperament while recovering functional athleticism and better respiratory structure. The Olde English Bulldogge Kennel Club was established, and the breed gained a following among owners who wanted Bulldog-type dogs with fewer health concerns. The UKC recognized the Olde English Bulldogge in 2014.
Caring for a Olde english bulldog
Training
Training a Olde english bulldog takes patience, but it’s worth the effort. They are stubborn and slow to respond to repetitive drills, which means owners need to keep sessions short, fun, and highly rewarding to make progress. Short, upbeat sessions with high-value treats and a relaxed, patient attitude tends to work best, and getting started early makes a real difference.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up, these are worth the read.
Grooming
Olde english bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush is all the coat needs, and the occasional wipe-down keeps them looking their best. Skin folds around the face require daily cleaning to prevent moisture buildup and irritation.
From nail trims to professional care, here’s everything you need to keep your Bully looking (and feeling) their best.
Exercise and mental stimulation
Olde english bulldogs have moderate energy levels and need 30 to 45 minutes of exercise each day to stay happy and healthy. Short walks, gentle play sessions, and interactive indoor games are all great ways to burn through that energy. But physical exercise is only half the picture. Olde english bulldogs are moderately intelligent dogs, and mental stimulation is just as important as the miles you put in. Without it, they become lazy, overweight, and prone to stubborn and attention-seeking behaviors. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent work are all solid ways to keep their brain engaged between walks.
Here’s how to build an exercise routine your Olde english bulldog will actually love.
Nutrition
Olde english bulldogs are medium to large dogs with moderate energy, so they need a diet to match. Most adults do well on around 1,000 to 1,300 calories a day, spread across two meals. Depending on what you’re feeding them, expect to spend around $50 to $75 a month on food. Not the cheapest line item, but not the most expensive either.
What goes in the bowl is your call, and your vet’s. Kibble, raw, fresh, or a combination: there’s no single right answer. Focus on quality ingredients, the right portions for your dog’s age and activity level, and you’re most of the way there.
Get the full picture on feeding a Olde english bulldog here.
Olde english bulldog costs and adoption
What does it cost to bring home a Olde english bulldog?
Before your Olde english bulldog even sets a paw in your home, there are some one-time costs worth planning for. Here’s what to expect upfront.
| Category | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Adoption (Reputable breeder) | $500-$2,000 | Health testing, vaccinations, early socialization, pedigree |
| Adoption (Rescue/shelter) | $50-$300 | Basic veterinary care, spay/neuter, temperament evaluation |
| Initial veterinary care | $300-$600 | Exam, vaccinations, spay/neuter if needed, microchip |
| Essential supplies | $200-$400 | Crate, bed, leash, collar, food bowls, toys |
| Training classes | $150-$300 | Basic obedience, puppy socialization |
Unexpected costs have a way of showing up in year one more than any other. A starter emergency fund alongside a solid pet insurance plan is the best way to make sure they don’t catch you off guard.
What does it cost to own a Olde english bulldog each year?
Once you’re past year one, ownership costs settle into a more predictable rhythm. Here’s what most Olde english bulldog owners spend annually, though keep in mind these numbers can vary quite a bit depending on where you live, your dog’s individual health needs, and the choices you make along the way.
| Category | Annual cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Food and treats | $600-$1,000 | Based on the recommended portion for your Olde english bulldog |
| Routine Veterinary Care | $500-$1,000 | Wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care |
| Professional Grooming | $100-$300 | Every Every 6 to 8 weeks, Short coat sheds moderately; weekly brushing significantly reduces loose hair. |
| Toys and Supplies | $200-$400 | Replacement items, mental stimulation toys |
What are popular Olde english bulldog names?
We’ve crunched the numbers, and found the top 10 most popular names for Olde english bulldog we see at Lemonade.
More names where those came from. If none of these are clicking, we’ve done the digging for you. Go find the one that sticks.
Olde english bulldog puppies
Puppy veterinary needs
The first year matters a lot. What happens between 8 weeks and 12 months shapes who this dog becomes. Here’s what to focus on.
The first few months are the most important window for your puppy’s health. Core vaccines start at 6–8 weeks and continue through 16 weeks. After that, its annual boosters and routine screening as they grow into adults.
It’s a lot to keep track of. That’s why we made it easy.
Puppy socialization
Olde english bulldog puppies are sturdy, loyal, and protective in a more functional package than the modern english bulldog. That a devotion and watchfulness that makes them effective family guardians is part of what makes them a healthier, more athletic alternative to the English Bulldog for owners who want Bulldog character in a more capable dog, and it’s also why early socialization matters so much.
Between 8 and 16 weeks, get them in front of as much variety as possible. Different people, animals, sounds, surfaces, and locations. Keep every experience positive. Puppy classes are great for this: supervised, controlled, and full of exactly the kind of novelty a Olde english bulldog brain needs to learn that the world is mostly fine.
Where are Olde english bulldog’s most popular in the United States?
Based on Lemonade’s own policyholder data, Olde english bulldogs are most popular in these five states. We’ve also thrown in a few things local pet owners should keep an eye on, so your pup can get out there and explore safely.
1. Texas
Texas heat is intense and sets in early. Hot pavement can burn paws from late spring through early fall, and heatstroke risk is high during midday walks in cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and fire ants are also common hazards, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
2. New York
In New York City, street hazards are the main thing to watch. Dropped food, discarded gum containing xylitol, and litter are common ingestion risks on sidewalks and in parks. Upstate and in Long Island, the story shifts to ticks: New York is a Lyme disease hotspot, and black-legged ticks are active from early spring through late fall.
3. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is one of the highest-risk states for Lyme disease in the US, with ticks active across the state's forests, parks, and suburban green spaces. Copperhead snakes are also found in wooded and rocky areas, particularly in the central and eastern parts of the state, so watching where your dog explores is worth the habit.
4. California
Foxtail grass is one of the sneakiest hazards for California dogs. The barbed seeds can embed in paws, ears, and noses from late spring through early fall, so check your dog after any outdoor time. Wildfire smoke is also a real seasonal concern; when air quality alerts are in effect, it's best to keep walks short and stay indoors as much as possible.
5. Washington
Western Washington's wet, mild climate creates near-perfect conditions for fleas year-round, and slugs in the Pacific Northwest can carry lungworm, a parasite dogs can pick up by sniffing or eating them. Eastern Washington and the Cascades bring different risks, including rattlesnakes and wildlife encounters on trails, so knowing which side of the mountains you're on matters.
Breed comparison
Already leaning toward a Olde english bulldog? These breeds often get compared, here’s a quick snapshot of how they stack up.
English Bulldog
Both are muscular, heavy-set breeds. English Bulldogs are more widely recognized. Olde English Bulldogs are more athletic, have fewer breathing issues, and are easier to keep healthy.
Read more
Bulldog
Bulldog refers to the English Bulldog. Olde English Bulldogs are more athletic and have fewer breathing issues. English Bulldogs are more widely known and recognized as a breed.
Read more
American Bulldog
Both are athletic bulldog varieties. American Bulldogs are larger and more energetic. Olde English Bulldogs are more compact, have fewer breathing issues, and are more laid-back.
Read more
French Bulldog
Both are muscular, flat-faced breeds. French Bulldogs are smaller and better for apartment living. Olde English Bulldogs are larger, more athletic, and have fewer breathing complications.
Read more
English Bull
These refer to very similar breed types. English Bull is a shortened name often used for the English Bulldog. Olde English Bulldogs are more athletic and have fewer breathing issues.
Read moreIs a Olde english bulldog right for you?
Olde english bulldogs reward the right owner with a sturdier, more capable presence than the modern English Bulldog with fewer health concerns and a loyalty and protectiveness that gives a household genuine security. They just need experienced bully breed ownership, early socialization, consistent training, and moderate daily exercise in return. If you’re ready for that, you’re ready for a Olde english bulldog. Make sure they’re protected from day one.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC. The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.
Insurance claim data is based on Lemonade pet insurance claims that were settled and paid in 2025.
Average insurance premium data is based on Lemonade’s internal data and reflects the average premium over the last 12 complete months, accurate as of June 2026.
Top pet names are sourced from Lemonade’s database of pet names associated with submitted quotes and purchased policies.
Top states for each breed are based on the number of active Lemonade pet insurance policies for that breed in each state as of June 2026.